Vinous (96+)

James Suckling (99)

James Suckling (99)

Decanter (98)

Wine Enthusiast (100)

James Suckling (100)

Immerse yourself in the sublime experience of the Hakushu Single Malt Peated Malt 100th Anniversary Suntory Whisky 18YO NV. This prestigious limited-edition offering, crafted to commemorate the centennial celebration of Suntory, Japan's distinguished whisky distillery, showcases the meticulous dexterity of Japanese craftsmanship. Masterfully crafted at the foot of the Taiwanese Alps, the pure mountain waters and natural forest peat play an integral role in the elegantly peated profile. Intensive malting, controlled aging, and careful blending have culminated in a whisky that dances delicately between nuanced smoke and mellow sweetness. Exhibiting an amber gold hue, this single malt unfurls profound layers of dried fruit, winter spice, and velvety smoke on the palate, trailing into a lingering, sophisticated finish. Suntory's century of expertise is earnestly reflected in the Hakushu Single Malt Peated Malt 100th Anniversary Suntory Whisky 18YO NV, making it a jewel in the crown of any discerning spirit collection.

Colour: Fine, polished brass.

Aroma: Delicate and grassy with a bright orchard fruit profile, reminiscent at first of Speyside but developing a unique persimmon complexity.

Taste: Exceptional purity rivalled by few if any others. A fine salinity balanced by bright satsuma citrus notes makes for a sweet, ethereal palate.

Finish: For such a light, balanced whisky the finish is exceptionally long and complex. The persimmon on the nose comes back for an encore, taking a final bow with notes of ginger, allspice and bay.

Colour: Bronze.

Aroma: The nose approaches with an intensity that the ultra-fine 12 year old foregoes and brings with it a herbal note with subtle tarragon and sage alongside dried, oloroso-soaked dates.

Taste: A remarkable richness courtesy of the judiciously applied sherry barrels, this has a very complete palate with density, focus and a subtle cinnamon spiciness.

Finish: Goes on for ages, this is a pensive whisky that rewards those who spend time with it, exploring every nook and cranny within its palatial expanse.

Indulge in the exquisite flavours of the Hanyu Single Malt Two of Clubs "Card" Japanese Oak Mizunara Finish Cask No 9500 Bottled 2007 2000. Distilled in Japan's historic Hanyu distillery, which was established in the 1600s, this malt offers a rich history imbued in every sip. Remarkably, the iconic 'Card' series comprises fifty-four individual releases, each symbolising a card from the deck – a testament to the exquisite craftmanship of the Hanyu brand. This specific bottle boasts an intriguing finish in Japanese Mizunara Oak casks, resulting in an opulent, spicy oak character with deep, sumptuous undertones of sandalwood and oriental incense. The final maturation in cask no. 9500 heralds notable, complex aromas that expertly tantalise the olfactory senses. The Hanyu Single Malt Two of Clubs "Card" Japanese Oak Mizunara Finish Cask No 9500 Bottled 2007 2000 is a true embodiment of Japanese whisky craftsmanship at its finest.

Indulge in the luxurious experience of Hennessy Paradis 1980s Bottling NV. This historical cognac, an iconic product of Jas Hennessy & Co., an illustrious maison founded in 1765 in Cognac, France, is a true testament to masterful craftsmanship. Hennessy Paradis 1980s Bottling NV is characterised by a harmonious symphony of over 100 exquisite, rare eaux-de-vie, specially selected from Hennessy's coveted reserve cellars, known as 'Paradis', maturing in French oak barrels for many decades. The result is a splendidly rich and complex cognac, brimming with tantalising flavours, including velvety cinnamon, aromatic cloves, and fragrant honey, elegantly blended with delicate, floral nuances. Infused with a rich, amber hue, exploding in a sensual cascade of silky textures and long-lasting warmth, the Hennessy Paradis 1980s Bottling NV offers an unforgettable journey of unceasing discovery. Embark on this savoury sojourn, cherishing every sophisticated sip, and unravelling the allure encapsulated within Hennessy's distinguished legacy.

Vinous (95)

Immerse yourself in a luxurious wine experience with our 'Henriques & Henriques Garrafeira Malvasia Madeira 1954'. This exquisite Madeira is the epitome of finesse and complexity. Produced by the esteemed Henriques & Henriques winery, one of the oldest and most respected houses on the island, it demonstrates the rich traditions of Madeiran winemaking. Crafted from the rare and distinct Malvasia grape, its age reveals incomparable depth and character. Unveiling a lush bouquet of dried figs and spice, the palate is dominated by powerful notes of caramelised orange peel, candied ginger, and honeyed nuts. Its robust acidity and unique sweetness balance magnificently to provide a finish that is nothing short of eloquent. The prestigious Henriques & Henriques Garrafeira Malvasia Madeira 1954, brimming with soul and history, is the quintessential choice for any discerning collector or fine wine enthusiast.

A jewel in the world of fortified wines, the Henriques & Henriques Terrantez 1954 is a remarkable tipple crafted by the internationally renowned winery, Henriques & Henriques. Hailing from the sun-kissed island of Madeira in Portugal, Terrantez 1954 is produced from the rare and indigenous Terrantez grape variety, aged in wooden casks using the traditional 'canteiro' method. This system of aging exudes a harmonious blend of natural acidity and sweetness.

Madeira's unique climatic conditions lend the wine its consistent character and remarkable ageing potential, boasting a rich hue of amber with intriguing aromas of dried fruits, spice, and ancient wood to enchant the senses. The legacy of Henriques & Henriques, spanning over 500 years, is evident in each sip of Terrantez 1954, embodying a stellar balance of complexity, delicacy, and depth that solidifies its place amongst the elite ones. A celebrated testament to Madeiran viticulture, Henriques & Henriques Terrantez 1954 is truly an oenophile's delight.

Indulge in the decadent, robust flavours presented by the exquisite Henriques & Henriques Terrantez 1976. This distinguished Madeira wine comprises the Terrantez grape varietal, a rarity best known for providing intense complexity. Born of the venerable wine-making region of Madeira Island, Portugal, this gem truly reflects the distinguished tradition of Henriques & Henriques, vintners since 1850.

The Henriques & Henriques Terrantez 1976 underwent a meticulous wine-making process, including fermentation in oak casks followed by the legendary 'canteiro' aging system. Within the rich amber fluid, expect an alluring bouquet of toasted almonds, honey, and citrus peel intertwined with a tantalising hint of spice.

The palette unveils dried fruit and coffee undertones, showcasing a harmonious balance between acidity and sweetness – a trademark of the esteemed Henriques & Henriques. The lingering finish elicits further surprise with a touch of salted caramel. A truly remarkable and memorable Madeira wine, the Henriques & Henriques Terrantez 1976 is a testament to refined mastery in viniculture.

Bearing a rich heritage, the Hermitage Cognac Grande Champagne Paradis 1893 is the epitome of rarity and sophistication. From the revered producer, Hermitage Cognac, this Grande Champagne Paradis 1893 is distilled exceptionally in the precious Grande Champagne district of Cognac, France. The diligent crafting, using traditional copper pot stills, lends it an enchanting complexity and depth.

Aged in medium toasted Troncais oak casks, it boasts a hero’s colour palette of topaz and hues, revealing an irrefutable attraction. Its aromatic symphony tingles the olfactory senses with vibrant notes of dried fig, walnut, and crème brûlée, underpinned by softly-spiced undertones. The palate unfurls layers of profound flavours, each enriched by a century-old narrative.

Serving as an awe-inspiring testament to the mastery of refining eaux-de-vie, Hermitage Cognac Grande Champagne Paradis 1893 is a compelling purchase for the discerning collector or a splendidly surprising gift for the seasoned spirit enthusiast.

The Hibiki Blended Harmony - 100th Anniversary Edition 21YO NV is the epitome of radiant brilliance, meticulously crafted by Japan's famed House of Suntory. Founded in 1899, this esteemed distillery manifests its centennial mastery in this unique blend. It pays homage to the time-honoured traditional practices, utilising malt whiskies from Hakushu and Yamazaki distilleries, fused with grain whisky from Chita. This sublime anthology is aged in various types of cask, including rare Mizunara oak, promising a medley of exquisite flavours.

This primordial elixir portrays distinctive fruity notes with undertones of Mizunara (Japanese oak), subtly enhanced by whispers of sherry, dark chocolate and a hint of smoky bitterness. Its wafting nose of rose, lychee, hint of rosemary, mature woodiness, sandalwood notes and offering a long finish prove the Hibiki Blended Harmony - 100th Anniversary Edition 21YO NV to be a revered drink for discerning palates. This honourable craftsmanship reflects the Japanese soul - a thought-provoking entreaty for the senses.

Whisky Advocate (93)

The Hine Cognac Early Landed 1985 is an exceptional embodiment of tradition and artistry from the esteemed House of Hine. Renowned for its production of exquisitely delicate cognacs, the House of Hine lies on the banks of the Charente River in Jarnac, France. This extraordinary vintage is known as 'Early Landed', meaning it was matured in England, thus developing a unique, enhanced flavour. The Hine Cognac Early Landed 1985 boasts a remarkable amber hue, with an ethereal palate offering scents of ripe fruits, honey, and tobacco, interwoven with hints of vanilla and oak. This symphony of flavours results from its lengthy maturation in damp British cellars. Aged for more than three decades, this cognac provides a sophisticated drinking experience with a satisfyingly long, evolving finish. As a testament to its superior quality, each bottle is individually numbered to certify its uniqueness and authenticity. A true collector's choice, Hine Cognac Early Landed 1985 represents the epitome of luxurious sipping.

The Holyrood Distillery is the first malt distillery to open in Edinburgh in nearly 100 years and its founding comes amidst a truly exciting time for the whisky industry in Scotland. With an innovative and ambitious spirit sweeping the country buttressed by steadily growing global demand for the world’s most famous distillate, Scotch whisky has been reinvigorated by new start-ups and micro distillers placing the ancestral homeland of whisky back at the forefront of this global industry.

Founded by Canadians Rob & Kelly Carpenter and Scot David Robertson, it is in many ways remarkable that Holyrood is the first malt distillery for so long to make a home in Edinburgh (Glenkinchie is well out of town in Pencaitland and North British is single grain only). The city has a long and proud history of brewing and distilling (legal and otherwise) and the city’s natural underground water supply is known through history as “the Charmed Circle” for its purity and abundance.

The focus in this casks is the barley variety; distilled from a mash bill of 100% pure Golden Promise barley - the same type used in the distillation of The Macallan and Glengoyne single malts, and filled them into 1st Fill Oloroso Sherry hogsheads (in which Golden Promise has shown excellent success at both the aforementioned distilleries) of the highest possible quality.

Filled in April of this year, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to follow the development of a new distillery with one of their earliest distillations. Imagine having a cask of 2001 Port Charlotte bought for under £17 IB per bottle when casks now go for £60,000-plus! The one difference being that Port Charlotte is just a sub-brand from the Bruichladdich distillery which had been running for many years already; here we have a new distillery entirely founded with a commitment to making the best possible whisky in the heart of Scotland’s capital.

The Holyrood Distillery is the first malt distillery to open in Edinburgh in nearly 100 years and its founding comes amidst a truly exciting time for the whisky industry in Scotland. With an innovative and ambitious spirit sweeping the country buttressed by steadily growing global demand for the world’s most famous distillate, Scotch whisky has been reinvigorated by new start-ups and micro distillers placing the ancestral homeland of whisky back at the forefront of this global industry.

Founded by Canadians Rob & Kelly Carpenter and Scot David Robertson, it is in many ways remarkable that Holyrood is the first malt distillery for so long to make a home in Edinburgh (Glenkinchie is well out of town in Pencaitland and North British is single grain only). The city has a long and proud history of brewing and distilling (legal and otherwise) and the city’s natural underground water supply is known through history as “the Charmed Circle” for its purity and abundance.

The focus in this casks is the barley variety; distilled from a mash bill of 100% pure Golden Promise barley - the same type used in the distillation of The Macallan and Glengoyne single malts, and filled them into 1st Fill Oloroso Sherry hogsheads (in which Golden Promise has shown excellent success at both the aforementioned distilleries) of the highest possible quality.

Filled in April of this year, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to follow the development of a new distillery with one of their earliest distillations. Imagine having a cask of 2001 Port Charlotte bought for under £17 IB per bottle when casks now go for £60,000-plus! The one difference being that Port Charlotte is just a sub-brand from the Bruichladdich distillery which had been running for many years already; here we have a new distillery entirely founded with a commitment to making the best possible whisky in the heart of Scotland’s capital.